Page 9 - Best of Greenwood Community Guide
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 historians have credited several “pillars” with shaping the Greenwood of today, and those were in place
from the outset. One was an early special interest of Greenwood residents in educating students. By the time of its chartering in 1857, Greenwood had schools that were already 25 years old.
A second foundation for Greenwood’s continued prosperity was the initiative and hard work of its founders and early settlers in providing transportation facilities; first railroads, then highways and an airport.
A third key part of Greenwood’s early development was the area’s textile industry. The Greenwood community has become well known throughout the state as “an example of what can be accomplished by unremitting energy and boundless self-reliance” and Greenwood’s “hospitable and progressive” people welcome “all who may come” to their town. These characteristics are still present today.
For over a century, the Greenwood SC Chamber of Commerce has grown to become the largest business organization serving the greater Greenwood area. Recognized as a leader for business success, strategic economic growth and community development, the Chamber helps create a vibrant and healthy business environment in which members can grow and thrive.
With a mission of championing business and advocating for the community, the Chamber remains focused on serving its members in the areas of Advocacy, Business, Leadership, and Economic Growth. Accredited by
the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE), the Greenwood SC Chamber is one of only 28 accredited chambers of more than 200 in the Carolinas. The CACCE represents approximately 129 Chambers in both North and South Carolina.
Advocacy: The Greenwood SC Chamber continues
to be a strong voice for local businesses in the public policy arena. Your Chamber partners with other Upstate chambers through the Upstate Chamber Coalition and the SC Chamber to have your voice heard in Columbia and in Washington, D.C. The Chamber also has an active Advocacy Committee that works closely with its lobbyists to keep its membership informed of current legislative issues that may impact local businesses and our area economy. Several advocacy events are offered annually and include a Legislative Breakfast, State of the City & County, Hill Talk events with federal officials, Governor’s Luncheon, candidate forums, and a Candidate Academy, designed to educate interested candidates who seek political office.
Business: Focusing on the needs of business is a priority. The Chamber convenes forums for businesses of all
sizes to share best practices, explore mutual needs and opportunities and propose solutions for joint action. Programs include small business workshops and seminars, targeted programs for executives and human resource professionals, and initiatives that support the development and retention of talent.
Leadership: The Chamber has enjoyed a successful track record of cultivating and training leaders.
Leadership Greenwood Class of 2021
Through specific targeted programs that assist leaders
in developing personally and professionally, new talent has emerged. Programs include Greenwood Young Professionals (ages 18-45), Leadership Greenwood, Non-Profit Council, and the award-winning Women’s Leadership Council (WLC), that hosts a biennial Women’s Leadership Upstate Conference attracting more than 275 women. The Human Resources Roundtable will host
its fifth Greenwood Regional Management Conference in November. The Chamber also supports Greenwood County high school graduates with scholarships at both Piedmont Technical College and Lander University.
Economy: The Chamber grows a robust local economy by delivering programs, events, and services that
spotlight area businesses, promote business activities,
and encourage entrepreneurship. The Chamber
provides its members with valuable networking, as well
as opportunities for educational training, leadership development and committee involvement. Representatives can network, and develop new connections at monthly Business After Hours, the Lakelands Business Expo (formerly known as the Super Networking Night), Golf Tournament, and Grape Stomp Wine Walk.
For the past 54 years, the Chamber has organized the South Carolina Festival of Flowers, showcasing Greenwood as a destination for flowers, families and fun! In 2019, the South Carolina Festival of Flowers received Top International Awards at the International Festivals & Events Association’s (IFEA) Convention and Expo. The annual celebration received two (2) top honors at the International Festivals & Events Association’s (IFEA) Convention and Expo in San Diego, California on October 1. The SC Festival of Flowers won: SILVER for Best TV Promotion (Ad Spot or PSA)
and BRONZE for Best Miscellaneous Clothing, this annual award-winning festival targets thousands of visitors during the month of June and brings over $3 million of economic impact to Greenwood County.
Events: And when it comes to hosting meaningful
events, the Chamber serves various audiences. Whether you take advantage of the Morning Blend breakfast programs, the Annual Meeting, the Small Business Awards Luncheon or other business educational programs, you are sure to gain valuable information and make lasting business relationships. To promote healthy lifestyles, the
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